Choosing a domain name isn't as easy as it used to be. Most common names are taken, so you need to get creative.

There’s nothing quite as disheartening as finally settling on the perfect domain name only to find that it’s already taken. We’ve all been there, but the good news is, there’s a few tricks you can use to find a great domain name.

Use targeted keywords in your domain name.

Assuming your not going for a company branded URL such as mycompany.co.uk you want to find something that ideally targets keywords relevant to your industry. A great tool is http://ubersuggest.org/ to find phrases around the term you want.

Use Bust a Name to come up with a unique (and winning) combination.

http://www.bustaname.com/ can be used to generate a name based on keywords related to your industry.

Search for domain names from failed businesses in your industry and grab them.

Keep a running list of possible great future names. As soon as you think of it, you’ll thank yourself in the future. My list is 15 years old. It has served me well.

Walking through the shelves of a good library is a great way to start or spot a great domain name. Just do a twist on the title that resonates with your need.

Look for similar business names in other countries; you’ll always find a hint or a direction toward the perfect domain name.

Check out demised businesses in the same industry; then see if the domain name has lapsed and if so grab it before someone else does.

Get creative and go for something different like a .me or .club

.co.uk and .com domains are in tight supply, particularly if you have a short, common name for your business.

We use Domainr.com for most of our searching. It’s great for brainstorming ideas and finding domains with strange or new extensions (did you know you can get a .ninja domain?)

Ask your team

Here are some examples of possible questions to ask about your chosen name:

has versatility (works in multiple ways from course name to concept to book)

is sexy (catches fire/engaging)

can be sustainable over time (longevity)

looks good

sounds good when spoken

contains playful element

beginning of alphabet if possible

URL available

Keep your domain name short and clear, dont go for long, drawn out names.

Keeping your domain short and easy to remember is key. Using dashes is usually not a great idea as people don’t tend to remember them.

Need help?

If you need help choosing the right domain name for your business get in touch and our team of experts will help.

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